Clipper Cruise Line recently announced that construction of its Yorktown Clipper is proceeding on schedule, with service slated to begin in March 1988.

After being launched in November, the luxury yacht is being outfitted for an early March christening.

The $12-million ship is being built at First Coast Shipbuilding Corporation in Green Cover Springs, Fla.

The 257-foot Yorktown Clipper will accommodate 138 passengers in 69 staterooms. She will retain the characteristic appearance and functionality of her sister ships: all-outside staterooms, teakwood decks and a shallow, 8- foot draft. Interior decor will also follow the lead established by the company's earlier-built vessels, and Clipper will retain single-seating dining on the new vessel.

The Yorktown Clipper's long length will make her more adept along the Maine coast, Florida Keys and in the Caribbean's Leeward Islands, areas which will see new itineraries for Clipper in 1988.